Patriots get boost in AFC playoffs standings with Steelers win over Bengals

Before the Patriots and Texans kicked off Sunday night in Houston, New England received some positive news as it related to its push toward a potential bye in the AFC playoffs.

Thanks to the Steelers’ 33-20 road win over the Bengals, the Pats now have a much greater shot at landing one of the two top seeds in the conference. Cincy fell to 10-3 with the loss and still has to play at Denver in two weeks. The top-seeded Broncos also have an extremely tough game this coming Sunday at the aforementioned Steelers. Pittsburgh is still clawing for playoff positioning at 8-5 as the Chiefs (8-5) and Jets (8-5) both hold conference tie-breakers in the wild card race.